10 Things That Go Through Every New Dad’s Mind

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Knowing that you’re about to
become a father for the first time brings with it a hefty amount of joy,
excitement, and pride. But even before the baby arrives, moments of doubt,
frustration, and utter panic can creep in. But, hey, big life events often involve
some level of anxiety. The key is to avoid letting thoughts of dread and uncertainty
overtake an otherwise happy event.

Here are a few thoughts that
might pop into your head and what you can do to keep them in check.

1. I have no clue what I’m doing.

Cut yourself some slack. Parenthood
takes time and patience; don’t let your rookie status psych you out. Talk to
the people closest to you about the concerns you have. You’ll likely find that
your family, friends, and even casual acquaintances are more than willing to
share their advice and support.

2. I’m going to pass out in the
delivery room.

Don’t allow the potential for
embarrassment to freeze you out of what could be the most significant moment of
your life. Consider attending birthing classes with your child’s mother so you
both know what to expect when you arrive at the hospital. Show her that you’re
in her corner. After all, you’re not the one experiencing the contractions.

3. We can’t afford all this stuff.

Ever wonder how we made it as a
species before the advent of hand sanitizer and ergonomic high chairs? While
some products greatly assist in child rearing, you still need to manage your
budget. Tackle the big stuff first: crib, changing table, and car safety seat.
Then move on to what seems most useful, like a diaper bag, rocking chair, and playpen.
And as for any baby presents that just don’t fit your needs, say thank you…and
head out to get them exchanged!

4. Dirty diapers…ugh!

Though occasionally a messy operation,
most diaper changes won’t involve a hazmat suit. Simply remove the expired
unit, wipe up the mess, add a dash of rash cream, and reseal. Little tots will
appreciate knowing that you’ve got their back(side).

5. I’m a dude, not a doctor.

Despite their overdependence on
us big folk, babies tend to be fairly resilient. Skip the worry and focus on
getting to know the latest addition to the family. If something such as a fever
develops, give the pediatrician a call. And if mom’s having a tough time, reach
out to her obstetrician.

6. My life is over.

Happy hour, weekend bike rides,
and late-night dinners need not be off the menu entirely, but they will require
a bit of readjustment on your part. While you establish a routine with your
little one, it’s important to take a break every now and then. Try to carve out
time once a week not just for yourself, but also for and with your significant
other.

7. The crying won’t stop.

Newborns will always fuss and
wail, even if they’re fed and well rested. You just need to learn how to pick up
on their cues! Figure out what you need to do that makes your baby happy and
relaxed — singing, goofy sounds, gently rocking them. It takes a bit of trial
and error, but keep in mind: While crying can take a toll on your eardrums, it
won’t hurt your little one.

8. I’m going to miss sleep.

It’s true — newborns are
notoriously bad at telling time. This becomes most evident when you need to be
up for work at 6 a.m. and they decide to ring the dinner bell at 2 a.m. But as
with bouts of crying, this too shall pass. If possible, set up on-call shifts
with your partner so that one of you handles the baby while the other rests or
manages other tasks.

9. I can’t take the kid out alone.

While it’s tempting to remain in
the comfort of the castle, you and your new little prince or princess will eventually
need to journey away from home together, even if only for some fresh air. Start
small with a stroll around the neighborhood or to a nearby park. Once you have
that down, take it to the next level with a run to the dry cleaners or grocery
store. Also, check online for any local dads’ groups to hook up with fellow
fathers and their kids for hiking or other activities.

10. Hey, it’s me over here.

New dads sometimes feel like
they’ve been left standing on the sidelines while mother and child bask in all
the fanfare. It can also cut the other way, with new moms feeling like they
need to come up for air. Show her that your head’s in the game by cleaning up
the living room without being asked, or offering to take the baby for a while.
She’ll appreciate being on the same team and you won’t have to wait for the
play to be called.